Robert III middle school reopens in Martinique after seaweed gas closure

The Robert III middle school in Pontaléry, Martinique, has officially reopened for the 2026-2027 school year after a five-month closure. The facility had previously been evacuated due to high concentrations of sulfurous gases emitted by decomposing sargassum seaweed.

According to the ARS and the GIP sargasses, a decrease in gas concentrations, combined with intensive collection and cleanup efforts by local authorities, has made the return to the site possible. While the 350 students are returning to their original campus, authorities noted that vigilance remains necessary and monitoring systems will stay mobilized to track the situation and adapt conditions if needed.